Masters
Combine Interdisciplinary Studies with a
Discipline-Based Master’s Degree
The collaborative International Development Studies (IDS) Master’s program provides an interdisciplinary framework for the study of international development combining training in a selected academic discipline with exposure to a broad range of social science perspectives.
The MA, MSc, MBA or MEng degree with the added designation “International Development Studies” gives extra flexibility on the job market while permitting disciplinary specialization at the PhD level.
Many graduate programs at the University of Guelph examine some aspect of international development. IDS at Guelph has since 1991 successfully linked together the various departmental programs and faculty to provide a focal point for graduate teaching and research on international development topics. Students and faculty from different disciplines study the contemporary problems of poverty and inequality, as well as long-term change and cross-cultural comparisons, through a variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches. Our faculty has expertise in a wide range of development-related areas such as international political economy, food security, environment and development, gender, and economic history.
Our students represent a huge diversity in cultural and academic backgrounds. We have students from Canada, from other OECD countries and from all parts of the developing world. Almost all students have already travelled or worked internationally. Most entrants share one or more of three goals: an academic interest in better understanding the sources of international inequality, (under-) development and the process and strategies for change; the acquisition of specific knowledge in order to enter the field of international development; and mid-career education/training in the development field. Our graduates hold positions in government in Canada and abroad with NGOs, international organizations and private consultancies. Many enter PhD programs.
